Kennys Vargas update

Reportedly, numbers never lie.

Except we all know this is false in the game of baseball. There is so much a variety of statistics and measurements that can be used to make cases pro and con. And in the case of hitters/position players, there are many various mitigating circumstances that influence their production. Not just players' hot and cold streaks and adjustments, but also protection and batters on base in front of them.

Through today, Saturday May 31st, his per AB numbers have him on pace to finish at 27 doubles, down from 32 last season, nearly identical HR numbers, 20 vs 19, and 89 RBI vs 93 in 2013.

However, despite nearly identical numbers per AB compared to last season, based on this season, so far, and last season's 457 AB's, it should be pointed out that not only did Vargas start out a little slowly this season, but he's also up a level at AA. And unlike last season, there is no Buxton, Rosario or Sano to help carry the load.

Further, compare his overall slash line:

2013: .267 Avg./ .344 OB%/ .468 SLG%/ .813 OPS
2014: .324 Avg./ .401 OB%/ .514 SLG%/ .914OPS

Even more, he struck out at a rate of 23% percent per AB in 2013, and walked at an 11% rate, all based on 457 AB's for the season.

Thus far in 2014, in 185 AB's, he is striking out at a 17% rate, and walking at a 13% rate.

Granted, these numbers are based on AB's and not plate appearances, but I doubt there would be much discrepancy.

I believe this begs the question, "What happens next?"

I think this speaks of a promotion to Rochester soon, after the All-Star break to be sure. I think Vargas has crossed the line of "coming up", to a possible September call up and a possible bat for the 2015 Twins.

View full article